New Delhi: Shivam Dube said he had to curb his natural stroke-making instincts to play himslef in before accelarating in India‘s 17-run win over the Netherlands in the T20 World Cup.

India advanced to the super eight stage as group toppers after four consecutive victories.

The defending champions had slumped to 69 for three in nine overs after taking first strike in Ahmedabad but Shivam Dube’s 31-ball 66 lifted them to 193 for six.

The home side then restricted the Dutchmen to 176 for seven in another dominating victory.

“It was a little tough, this is the situation I love to bat. I was enjoying, although I was under pressure. It was skidding and keeping low. One of the balls spun as well,” Dube said after the match.

“For me, I knew I could hit, but the situation demanded something different. I try to hit boundaries and enjoy hitting sixes. I know all the bowlers are going to bluff me, and are going to bowl slower balls, so I prepared myself.”

Left handed Dube pointed out that match awareness remains the most crucial aspect even if he is encouraged to maintain a high strike rate, while also happy with his improved bowling.

“As (the) captain and (the) coach have told me, I have to keep (the) strike rate high. But it also depends on the situation. Today, I could not keep the strike rate high (immediately). There was something and I thought this is the time I can go now,” he said.

“Working hard towards bowling. Results are coming. You are going to get hit sometimes, but you will also pick wickets.”